Looking after our staff’s wellbeing

Royal Surrey Charity is thrilled to have funded a project that is supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our staff, thanks to generous donations to our Staff Wellbeing Fund (previously called our Covid-19 emergency appeal fund).

Three members of our staff qualified as Mental Health First Aid Instructors last year, and have since provided training internally for over 60 Royal Surrey staff to become Mental Health First Aiders, so they can better support colleagues. 

The investment from the charity of £7,200 means the instructors can train staff internally, saving a huge amount on external training costs. Our amazing health and wellbeing team are aiming to train up to 250 staff in the next couple of years, so more of our brilliant NHS workers have the tools to not only help staff who need support, but also better look after their own mental health needs. 

Hollie Montague, Staff Wellbeing Officer, said:

“Staff members who are struggling with their mental health are now able to access the appropriate support and signposting much more readily. We hope this will act as a preventative factor for their mental health deteriorating. The training should also help staff members in crisis to be identified sooner and receive a better level of support to safeguard them.”

Mark Witherden, Assistant Chaplain, who completed the training said:

“Since completing the training, I have certainly felt more equipped to assist when the need has arisen. The training takes away so much of the anxiety of stepping in to help. It is a privilege to sit down with someone, listen, and then signpost them to the appropriate organisations and professionals. I am pleased that I undertook the training as it has helped me in my role here, as chaplain, at the Royal Surrey County Hospital.”

Want to help us look after our NHS heroes?

Our Staff Wellbeing Fund helps to look after the people who take such good care of us all.

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